Description
Native Musicians in the Groove is the 2009 title in the Native Trailblazer Series. This volume offers elementary readers 10 biographical sketches about contemporary First Nations and Native American singers and musicians. Author Vincent Schilling interviewed each participant and supplies fascinating details about each artist. Many artists discuss their early musical influences, education, and ways they overcame racism. The list includes Cree country music singer Shane Yellowbird; Ojibwe singer and songwriter Crystal Shawanda; Dene folk singer Leela Gilday; Pascua Yaqui classical guitarist Gabriel Ayala; Seminole/Aleut flutist Mary Youngblood; Punk rock and traditional Dine/Navajo musicians Blackfire; Creek/Seminole singer/songwriter Jamie Coon; Cherokee composer and singer Michael Bucher; Nakota Sioux lead guitarist Mato Nanji; and multinational powwow drum group Four Rivers Drum. This is a valuable contribution to the literature about First Nations women and men musicians from Canada and the United States suitable for elementary students. Reading Level: 6.0